Festive feels: Celebrating the season with Avani

There’s something magical about celebrating the festive season in a city that blends culture, design and just the right amount of joy. Here are five Avani destinations where the holiday spirit gets a modern, stylish twist – from museum-hopping in Amsterdam to techno-lit nights in Frankfurt, with festive flavours from Madrid, Bangkok and Dubai in between.

Amsterdam: Canal-side sparkle

If you needed an excuse to visit Amsterdam this winter, surely joining in the city’s 750th birthday celebrations is reason enough? With its crisp air, glowing bridges, steaming stroopwafels and creative energy, the ‘Venice of the North’ is mesmerising in the colder months.

Wander Museumplein, catch an exhibit at the Rijksmuseum or the Van Gogh Museum, or simply take in the city’s canal-side sparkle. Amsterdam does winter with effortless charm – Avani just puts you right in the middle of it at Avani Museum Quarter Amsterdam Hotel.

Bangkok: Tropical delights

Thailand’s capital brings a different kind of winter magic – one where the skyline glitters, the weather stays warm and festive flavours arrive with a Thai twist.

At Avani Sukhumvit Bangkok Hotel, the holiday spirit shines through with the Festive Enchantment Afternoon Tea – a sweet-and-savoury spread of strawberry pavlova, golden bites and the all-important chocolate log, all served with city views and easygoing Avani vibes. Make an afternoon of it: wander out to On Nut’s buzzing streets, hop on the BTS to explore seasonal light displays, browse night markets and tick off your holiday shopping, or simply soak up the energy of Bangkok at its brightest time of year.

Dubai: Desert celebrations

A dazzling destination year-round, Dubai shines even brighter during Christmas and New Year. Wander through enchanting waterfront Christmas markets to find gifts for loved ones, hit the snowy slopes at Ski Dubai, tuck into delicious festive feasts or take in the epic views from the towering Burj Khalifa. And don’t miss the grand New Year’s Eve celebration, where the city’s iconic skyline comes alive with a breathtaking fireworks extravaganza.

Stay at Avani+ Palm View Dubai Hotel & Suites or Avani Ibn Battuta Dubai Hotel, and you’re right in the middle of the action. Ask the team where to find the best seasonal markets, boutique gifts or neighbourhood gems – Dubai is full of surprises, and this is the time of year it sparkles the most.

Frankfurt: Techno nights & Christmas vibes

Frankfurt’s festive season mixes traditional markets with a modern, urban beat, and nowhere captures that contrast better than Avani Frankfurt City Hotel.

Their AVANI Pulse Nights – Xmas Edition is where techno meets tinsel: deep house beats, neon lights in Avani purple and gold, glow-effect cocktails and a crowd that comes ready to move. Every hour, the ‘Pulse Moment’ drops – lights flicker, the beat kicks and the room shifts into high gear. And when it’s time to slow things down, outside Frankfurt’s classic Christmas markets glow with wooden stalls, spiced treats and festive cheer.

Madrid: Glitter & glam

Madrid was made for winter wandering. Watch the streets come to life with dazzling Christmas lighting displays – spots like Gran Via and Plaza Mayor should definitely be on your list. Take some time to explore the many Christmas markets around the city and pick up gifts for loved ones. Or for a unique Madrid Christmas experience, ice skate under the twinkling lights at Matadero Madrid or Retiro Park.

Located in the charming Chamberi neighbourhood, Avani Alonso Martínez Madrid Hotel puts you close to all the festive action. Simply hop on the metro to visit all the city’s best sights. After dark, the neighbourhood's restaurants come alive with festive cheer and celebration.